Optional beta V0.31005 is out. Unless theres something catastrophically wrong with it, this is likely to be the final patch before we set the update live for everyone, but please dont stop giving feedback on bugs and balance!
If you haven't taken part in this beta yet and would like to, follow the instructions in the original post.
Once it goes public, we will be working hard on part 2 of this large update and implementing more changes, with a particular view to improving the AI further and fine-tuning freeplay / skirmish balance. Might even chuck in a new freeplay map or two whilst were at it.
Fixes
Fixed uber mole crickets giving no food on death
Fixed a crash related to AI processes
Fixed a common custom game crash
Custom game creatures with a UI health bar will always display it when taking damage from the player, and not from other colonies
Fixed lingering status visual effects in Battle Arena
Beach asset graphical fixes
Root aphid graphical fixes
Rearranged some leaves in Embankment
Additions & Changes
Added samphire plants to 2.x & The Dunes
1v1 custom games will now always be on opposite sides of the map
Updated Basin tunnel exits to be from the Ecuador art set
Updated 1.x, 2.x & wood ant variant video thumbnails
"Your queen has set up home beneath a rotting log. She is fat, and vulnerable. Her first brood will need to move quickly if the colony is to survive. Their priority now is to find food, and there is plenty around; but there are other hungry creatures in the undergrowth. The workers will need to be vigilant."
Empires of the Undergrowth is an ant colony management game, in a fast-paced real-time strategy style. The player excavates their nest underground, constructing tunnels and chambers to store food and raise brood. On the surface, the ants claim territory, gather resources, overwhelm fearsome arachnids and clash with other colonies. Nest design, army size, composition and attack timing are key to securing victory.
Carve out and construct your underground nest to suit your strategy
Engage in fast-paced colony versus colony combat above ground
Play as different ant species and explore their unique traits and weaknesses
Encounter and overpower dangerous beetles, arachnids and other awesome arthropods
Grow your pet formicarium over time by completing missions
MINIMAL SETUP
OS: Any reasonable new Linux distro (Ubuntu 16.04)